Filtered cigarette possessing tipping material

Cigarette with filter that has a nozzle material.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to smoking articles, such as filter cigarettes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION US 4,687,009 discloses a filter cigarette comprising a filter plug substantially cylindrical and a nozzle paper laminate circumscribing the filter plug and a portion of a column of tobacco.

WO 00/00047 discloses a cigarette comprising a tobacco column and a filter nozzle, the filter nozzle including a laser perforation band in a downstream location and a second perforation band in an upstream location , the second band comprising an outer band of laser perforations in the nozzle paper in an overlapping relationship with the area of ​​perforations of the block in the upstream location.

US 5,819,751 discloses a cigarette in which an isolated filament is combined with a substrate set comprising a substrate within a tube, combining a tobacco roll with a taco of tobacco paper, combining the set of fuel element / substrate with the tobacco / tobacco paper assembly, and combining the resulting combination with a filter element to produce filter cigarettes.

EP 0 247 702 A2 discloses a cigarette comprising a filter plug with wrap. The filter block and the tobacco column are circumscribed and joined by a first substantially air permeable layer of nozzle paper. Circumscribing the first layer of nozzle paper is a second layer of nozzle paper substantially impermeable to air.

WO 2007/052170 A2 discloses a smoking article having an outer surface and a plurality of frangible microcapsules provided on the outer surface, wherein the microcapsules can be manually broken by a consumer to release an odorizer encapsulated therein. .

Popular smoking articles, such as cigarettes, have a substantially cylindrical bar-shaped structure and include a load, roll, or column of smokable material such as chopped tobacco (for example, in the form of a cut fill) surrounded by a wrapper of paper thus forming a so-called "smokable column" or "tobacco column". Normally, a cigarette has a cylindrical filter element aligned in an end-to-end relationship with the tobacco column. Typically, a filter element comprises plasticized cellulose acetate tow with the use of triacetin, and the tow is circumscribed by a paper material known as "filter wrap." A cigarette may incorporate a filter element having multiple segments, and one of said segments may comprise activated charcoal particles. See, for example, US Pat. No. 6,537,186 to Veluz; PCT Publication No. WO 2006/064371 of Banerjea; and US Patent Application No. 11 / 226,932, filed September 14, 2005, by Coleman III, et al. Typically, the filter element is fixed to one end of the tobacco column using a surrounding wrapping material known as "nozzle paper", in order to provide a so-called "filter cigarette." It has also become desirable to perforate the nozzle material and the filter casing, in order to provide a dilution of the direct smoke absorbed, with the ambient air. In Tobacco Production, Chemistry and Technology, Davis et al. (Eds.) (1999) descriptions of cigarettes and the various components thereof are set forth. A smoker uses a cigarette by lighting one end of it and burning the tobacco column. Next, the smoker receives direct smoke in his mouth by inhaling at the opposite end (for example, the filter or end of the mouth) of the cigarette.

Several attempts to modify the visual attributes of cigarettes have been proposed. For example, attempts have been made to modify the color of the wrapping materials that provide the wrapping material of the tobacco column (eg, cigarettes sold under the trade name "More" of RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company possess cigarette wrapping papers that have a brown color) and the nozzle materials used to attach the tobacco column to the filter element (for example, nozzle materials having a " cork ”and / or have at least one surrounding ring). Additionally, attempts have been made to modify the general appearance of the filter elements of cigarettes. See, for example, the types of formats, configurations and designs of cigarette filter elements set forth in US Patent Nos. 3,596,663 to Schultz; 4,508,525 of Berger; 4,646,763 to Nichols; 4,655,736 to Keith; 4,726,385 to Chumney, Jr .; 4,807,809 of Pryor et al .; and 5,025,814 to Raker; and U.S. Patent Application No. 11 / 377,630, filed March 16, 2006, by Crooks et al.

The sensory attributes of cigarette smoke can be enhanced by applying additives to tobacco and / or otherwise incorporating flavoring materials to various components of a cigarette. See Tobacco Flavoring for Smoking Products, from Leffingwell et al., RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company (1972). For example, a type

Tobacco flavoring additive is menthol. See Rec. Adv. Tob Sci., 19, p. 47 to 70, 1993, by Borschke. Several methods proposed to modify the sensory attributes of cigarettes have implied the suggestion that filter elements can be used as vehicles to add flavor to the direct smoke of said cigarettes. US Patent Application Publication No. 2002/0166563 by Jupe et al. proposes the placement of adsorbent and flavor releasing materials in a cigarette filter. US Patent Application Publication No. 2002/0020420, by Xue et al., Proposes the placement of fibers containing adsorbents / absorbents of reduced particle size in the filter. US Patents No. 4,941,486 to Dube et al. and 4,862,905 of Green, Jr. et al. propose ways and methods for placing a flavor-bearing pellet in the filter of each cigarette. In US Patents 3,972,335 of Tiggelbeck et al .; 4,082,098 to Owens, Jr .; 4,281,671 to Byrne; 4,643,205 of Redding et al .; 4,677,995 to Kallianos et al .; 4,715,390 of Nichols et al .; 4,729,391 of Woods et al .; 4,768,526 to Pryor; 5,012,829 to Thesing et al .; 5,387,385 to Rivers; and 7,074,170 to Lanier, Jr. et al., other representative types of cigarette filters incorporating flavoring agents are disclosed. See also the types of cigarette filter technologies described in the background section of the technique set forth in US Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0261807 of Dube et al.

It would be highly desirable to provide a smoker with the ability to improve his smoking experience, such as that which can be achieved by providing a filter cigarette having an end of the filter element having particular design characteristics. That is, it would be desirable to provide a cigarette having filter end components that are used in such a way that the visual appearance of the cigarette is aesthetically pleasing. It would also be desirable to provide a cigarette that has selected design features that can be modified or otherwise controlled. Additionally, it would be desirable to provide a filter element for a cigarette that has the ability to enhance the sensory attributes of the cigarette during use.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to filter cigarettes. A representative cigarette has a smokable column and a filter element. The smokable column, which contains filler material (e.g., cut tobacco filler) intended to be burned in order to produce direct inhaled tobacco smoke, is connected or otherwise secured to the filter element using nozzle material. The cigarette has more than one layer of nozzle material. For example, the cigarette may have an outer layer of nozzle material that overlaps on at least a portion of an underlying inner layer of nozzle material, and during use by the person wishing to smoke the cigarette, the layer exterior can be removed from the last mentioned. Thus, it is possible for a cigarette manufacturer to provide an individual cigarette that can be used as such by the smoker, or that can be easily adapted by the smoker to provide a different sensory experience (e.g., visual, organoleptic, trigeminal characteristics, Aromatic and tactile cigarette can be modified by removing the outer nozzle material). Alternatively, the outer layer of nozzle material can be used as a second layer of nozzle material to further improve the physical integrity of the cigarette. In connection with yet another point, outer nozzle material having printed indications (for example, printed information on the inner surface of a separable outer layer of nozzle material) can be used for marketing purposes (for example, to identify each individual cigarette for purposes related to promotional or advertising campaigns, or to identify cigarettes for purposes related to the deterrence of counterfeits).

Thus, in one embodiment, the invention provides a filter cigarette comprising a smokable column and a filter element having a terminal end of mouth, the smokable column and the filter element being secured together by means of a first nozzle material that circumscribes the filter element by its longitudinal periphery and the smokable column by a portion of its longitudinal periphery in a region thereof adjacent to the filter element, the cigarette further comprising a second nozzle material that overlaps on at least a portion of the first nozzle material.

The two nozzle materials can be substantially identical in terms of their overall dimension, or the second nozzle material can be extended further, by the longitudinal periphery of the smokable column, than the first nozzle material, or the first nozzle material it can be extended beyond, by the longitudinal periphery of the smokable column, than the second nozzle material. Each of the first and second nozzle materials may have a series of air dilution perforations, or only the inner nozzle material may include such perforations.

In certain embodiments, all or at least a portion of the second nozzle material is separable from the cigarette. In certain applications, the visual appearance, tactile characteristics, or other properties of the two nozzle materials may differ such that the removal of the second nozzle material exposes the smoker to a different property, such as a different flavor or aroma, a different visual appearance, or a different touch feature.

The second nozzle material may possess, in certain embodiments, features such as indications printed on its inner face, a perforated region adapted to facilitate the removal of at least a portion of the second nozzle material, a tongue region adapted to be picked up. in order to withdraw at least

a portion of the second nozzle material, or combinations thereof.

There are several ways in which the two nozzle materials can be applied to the cigarette column. For example, the first nozzle material and the second nozzle material can be formed from a single piece of nozzle material wrapped around the first element. Alternatively, the two nozzle materials can be preformed as a laminate of nozzle material before application to the cigarette column. For example, the nozzle material laminate may comprise a first layer of nozzle material having a first edge and a second edge and a second layer of nozzle material, wherein the first layer and the second layer are thereby displaced. that, when wrapped around a bar-shaped object, the first edge of the first layer of nozzle material can be superimposed on the second edge of the first layer of nozzle material. The first edge of the first layer of nozzle material may be coextensive with a first edge of the second layer of nozzle material. Alternatively, a first edge of the second layer of nozzle material may extend beyond the first edge of the first layer of nozzle material, thus forming a tongue region of the second layer of nozzle material.

In another embodiment, the second nozzle material comprises a first region proximal to the smoking column, a second remote region with respect to the smoking column, and a perforated region between them, wherein one of the first and second regions is firmly fixed to the First nozzle material and the other of the first and second regions is configured to slidably engage the filter element upon perforation of the perforated region. The first region can be configured to slidably engage the filter element and the smokable column and, for example, may include a flavoring agent adapted to modify the sensory characteristics of the cigarette before smoking, while smoking, or after smoking. In other embodiments, the first region is formed of a non-combustible material and is configured to extinguish the cigarette when it slidably engages the smokable column. Alternatively, the second region is configured to slidably engage the filter element and extend beyond the terminal end of the filter element.

In a preferred embodiment, a filter cigarette is provided comprising a smokable column and a filter element having a terminal end of the mouthpiece, the smokable column and the filter element being secured together by means of a first nozzle material which circumscribes the filter element by its longitudinal periphery and the smokable column by a portion of its longitudinal periphery in a region thereof adjacent to the filter element, the cigarette further comprising a second nozzle material that overlaps on at least a portion of the first nozzle material, wherein the second nozzle material includes a perforated region and a tongue region adapted to be grasped such that less a portion of the second nozzle material that extends from the tongue region to the perforated region is separable from the cigarette.

In another aspect, the invention provides several methods for making the filter cigarette described above. The methods typically include the formation of cigarette columns, such as double cigarette columns, which include smokable column portions and filter element portions, in the same manner and using the same techniques known in the art. The methods further include applying at least two layers of nozzle material to said cigarette. That is, for example, in a cigarette with filter a nozzle can be applied using a layer of nozzle material, and then a nozzle can be applied again, using a second layer of nozzle material. In this regard, the filter cigarette can be wrapped twice using two independent pieces of nozzle material, or the filter cigarette can be double wrapped using a single piece of nozzle length material. Another way or method of manufacturing a cigarette with filter, representative, involves the application of a layer of multilayer or rolled nozzle material to said cigarette. That is, for example, in a filter cigarette the nozzle can be applied only once using a double layer or laminated nozzle material in order to provide a cigarette with a nozzle with two layers of nozzle material.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS To help understand embodiments of the invention, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which have not necessarily been drawn to scale and in which the same reference numerals refer to the same elements. The drawings are exemplary only, and should not be considered as limiting the invention. For the various figures, in order to clearly show the configurations of the various wrapping materials, the thicknesses of said wrapping materials of the various filter cigarettes have been exaggerated. Most preferably, the wrapping materials are wrapped tightly around filter cigarettes to provide a tight or tight fit, in order to provide a cigarette that has acceptable physical integrity, and in order to provide an appearance. aesthetically pleasing

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a filter cigarette of the invention; FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a "double" filter cigarette of the invention; FIGS. 3 to 5 are cross-sectional views of other selected embodiments of filter cigarettes of the invention;

FIGS. 6 and 7 are extreme views, observed from the end of the mouth, of selected embodiments of filter cigarettes of the invention; FIGS. 8 and 9 are side views of selected embodiments of rolled nozzle materials that are useful for the manufacture of cigarettes of the invention; FIG. 10 is an end view, seen from the end of the mouth, of an embodiment of a filter cigarette of the invention; and FIG. eleven it is a view of nozzle material useful for the manufacture of a cigarette of the general type set forth in FIG. 10.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention will be described in more detail in reference to the attached drawings. The invention can be embodied in many different forms and should not be considered as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; on the contrary, these embodiments are provided in such a way that the present presentation satisfies the applicable legal requirements. Equal numbers refer to the same elements as a whole. As used herein and in the claims, the singular forms "a", "a", and "the", "the" include references to the plural unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Although preferred embodiments of the invention include two layers of nozzle material, the invention also encompasses embodiments in which three or more layers of nozzle material are applied to the cigarette.

Referring to FIG. 1, components of a smoking article 174 are shown in the form of a filter cigarette. Cigarette 174 includes a generally cylindrical column 186 of a load or roll of smokable filler material 188 contained in a surrounding wrapping material 190 of the present invention. Column 186 is conventionally referred to as a "smoking column" or "tobacco column." The ends of the tobacco column are open to expose the smokable filler material. At one end of the tobacco column 186 is the ignition end 195, and at the other end a filter element 200 is shown. Cigarette 174 is shown to have an optional printed band 202 printed on wrapping material 190, and said band completely circumscribes the cigarette column in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the cigarette. That is, the band provides a region of transverse direction with respect to the longitudinal axis of the cigarette. The band is most preferably applied on the inner surface of the wrapping material (i.e. facing the smokable filler material), although it can be applied on the outer surface of the wrapping material. Although the cigarette shown has wrapping material that has a band, the cigarette can also have wrapping material that has bands spaced in a number of two, three, or more. The band 202 comprises additive materials of a coating formulation.

Cigarette 174 normally includes a filter element 200 or other suitable embedding element positioned adjacent to one end of tobacco column 186 such that the filter element and tobacco column are axially aligned in an end-to-end relationship. -extreme, preferably in mutual support. The filter element 200 has a generally cylindrical shape, and the diameter thereof is essentially equal to the diameter of the tobacco column. The ends of the filter element are open to allow air and smoke to pass through them. The filter element 200 includes filter material 205 (for example, plasticized cellulose acetate tow) which is applied as an overcoat, by the surface thereof extending longitudinally, surrounding material 206 of filter housing. The filter element 200 may comprise two or more filter segments (not shown), and / or flavor additives incorporated therein.

The filter element 200 is fixed to the tobacco column 186 by means of a first nozzle material 208 which circumscribes both the entire length of the filter element and an adjacent region of the tobacco column. The inner surface of the first nozzle material 208 is fixedly fixed to the outer surface of the filter wrap 206 and to the outer surface of the wrapping material 190 of the tobacco column, using a suitable adhesive (eg, a base based adhesive of water, of the type traditionally used by cigarette manufacturers for the application of nozzle paper during the manufacture of cigarettes with filters). That is, the first nozzle material extends around the longitudinally extending periphery of the substantially complete length of the filter wrap, and a longitudinally extending portion of the periphery of the tobacco column wrapping material in a region of the tobacco column immediately adjacent to the filter element. Optionally, a ventilated or air-diluted smoking article is provided with air dilution means, such as a plurality or series of perforations 210, each of which extends through the nozzle material 208 and the sheath 206 Filter Most preferably, adhesive is applied to a seam line or longitudinally extending overlapping area (not shown) of the first nozzle material, as conventionally used during cigarette manufacturing.

Cigarette 174 also has a second nozzle material 250. The second nozzle material 250 provides an outer layer that overlaps and circumscribes the first nozzle material 208. The totality

or selected portions of the inner surface of the second nozzle material 250 may be fixedly secured to the outer surface of the inner nozzle material 208 or first nozzle material. As such, in preferred embodiments, the second nozzle material 250 also overlaps the entire length of the filter element and the adjacent region of the tobacco column. For the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, both

Nozzle materials extend at essentially equal distances across the region of the tobacco column that is adjacent to the filter element. For certain preferred cigarettes, the first and second nozzle materials are both substantially identical in terms of their overall dimension (for example, said nozzle materials have comparable thicknesses, widths, and lengths). Optionally, a ventilated or air-diluted smoking article is provided with air dilution means, such as a series of perforations 210, each of which extends through the outer nozzle material 250, the material 208 of inner nozzle, and filter wrap 206.

Adhesive can be applied to each of the nozzle materials using techniques generally similar to those conventionally used for the application of nozzle materials during cigarette manufacturing. In that way, the two layers of nozzle material can be applied and secured using conventional adhesives and application techniques, and the cigarette thus provided is used with both layers of nozzle material attached thereto. However, adhesive can be applied to a seam line or longitudinally extending overlapping area (not shown) of the second nozzle material 250. Thus, the second nozzle material 250 is adapted and applied to the cigarette in such a way that the second nozzle material is detachably released from that cigarette. Thus, the resulting filter cigarette, of acceptable quality, can be used leaving the second nozzle material 250 intact; at the same time, alternatively, the second nozzle material can be separated from the cigarette, the first nozzle material 208 acting so that it provides the resulting modified cigarette with filter, which also has an acceptable quality.

In one embodiment, the outer nozzle material 250 or second nozzle material, which is not treated to provide air dilution to the cigarette, or that is treated such that the cigarette does not experience a high degree or level of air dilution, It can be separated from the cigarette. As such, the underlying material 208 or first nozzle material, which can be treated to provide a relatively high level of dilution to the cigarette, can be exposed by removing the second overlapping nozzle to allow a higher level of dilution with air. As such, the cigarette can be smoked with the second nozzle material 250 intact, in order to provide a tasty direct smoke; or said second nozzle material can be removed, in order to provide direct smoke diluted with air that has a less tasty character.

A representative way or method to provide such a cigarette entails an appropriate modification of the equipment and methodologies used by cigarette manufacturers to provide so-called "banded" cigarettes for purposes related to market research. That is, instead of applying a surrounding band (for example, a band of a width of approximately 1 cm) around the cigarette in the general region where the tobacco column and the filter element are placed in mutual support, The second nozzle material is applied as a surrounding band along the entire length of the filter element and over a portion of the length of the tobacco column in a region of the tobacco column adjacent to the filter element. As such, filter cigarettes are provided that have two layers of nozzle material that are positioned, applied and aligned in a predetermined, desired manner, which means that the position and alignment of each layer of nozzle material is predetermined by the manufacturer. Such equipment is particularly suitable for applying two suitably aligned layers of nozzle material to a cigarette, none of these layers of nozzle material being designed for removal of the cigarette (for example, because the adhesive is can be applied on the substantially complete inner surface of the outer nozzle material). As such, the double-tipped cigarette of the invention can exhibit improved physical integrity. Alternatively, said equipment may be suitable for applying two properly aligned layers of nozzle material to a cigarette, the outer layer of them being designed in order to be separated from the cigarette (for example, using a type of removable coating adhesive that is it can be applied on the substantially complete inner surface of the outer nozzle material, or on the outer surface of the inner nozzle material).

Referring to FIG. 2, a representative "double" cigarette 400 is shown which can be subdivided according to dashed line 2-2 in order to provide two cigarettes with filter 174, 409. Additionally, in reference to FIG. 2 Representative ways or methods for providing preferred types of cigarettes are described. A "double" filter segment 417 is provided. Said filter segment 417, representative, has filter material 205 circumscribed by the filter housing 206. Two columns 190, 428 of tobacco are aligned at each end of the "double" filter segment. A first layer of nozzle material 208 (for example, a so-called "patch" of nozzle material) is wrapped around the aligned components, such that the nozzle material circumscribes the full length of the "double filter" segment 417 ”, And a portion of the length of each column 190, 428 of tobacco in the respective regions thereof adjacent to the filter segment. Typically, said first layer of nozzle material 208 circumscribes between about 3 mm and about 4 mm of the length of each tobacco column. As such, a cigarette called "double" 400 is provided. For certain preferred embodiments, the first layer of nozzle material is selected from a type of nozzle material, and is applied with a type of modality, which are comparable, each of them, with those traditionally used for commercial manufacturing. of cigarettes with filter. Optionally, said cigarette may be diluted with air (for example, using laser drilling techniques) by applying at least one surrounding ring of perforations 210, 455 through the nozzle material 208 of the first layer and the envelope 206 underlying filter. Then, the "double" cigarette thus provided can be transferred to a second assembly of

nozzle. There, a second layer of nozzle material 250 (for example, a second "patch" of nozzle material) is wrapped around the "double" cigarette 400, such that the second layer of nozzle material overlaps the first layer of nozzle material 208. Optionally, said cigarette may be diluted with air (for example, using laser drilling techniques) by applying at least one surrounding ring of perforations 210, 455 through the second layer of nozzle material 250, material 208 of the first layer nozzle and the underlying filter housing 206. Thus, for the embodiment shown, perforations for air dilution may be absent, may be provided through both layers of nozzle materials, or may be provided only through the first layer of nozzle material. Next, the "double" combined segment having two layers of nozzle material is cut in half, perpendicular to its longitudinal axis, to provide two finished cigarettes 174, 409. As such, the two finished cigarettes 174, 409 are both characterized by a smooth mouth end, wherein the mouth end of the filter material 205, the filter shell 206, and the nozzle materials 208, 250 are all in The same plane. If desired, the two types of "patches" used as nozzle materials 208, 250 may be substantially identical to each other (for example, in terms of overall visual appearance, width, length, thickness, physical properties and / or composition). As such, filter cigarettes are provided that have two layers of nozzle material that are positioned, applied and aligned in a desired, predetermined manner.

The preparation of a "double" cigarette with double nozzle according to the previous form is particularly suitable for applying two properly aligned layers of nozzle material to a cigarette, none of said layers of nozzle material being designed in order to be removed, or intended to be removed, from the cigarette (for example, because the adhesive can be applied on the substantially complete inner surface of the outer nozzle material). Alternatively, such a methodology may be suitable for applying two properly aligned layers of nozzle material to a cigarette, the outer layer thereof being designed, or intended for the purpose of being removed from the cigarette (for example, using a type of removable adhesive coating that can be applied to the substantially complete inner surface of the outer nozzle material, or the outer surface of the inner nozzle material). If desired, the outer nozzle material can be applied to possess adhesive only on selected regions thereof, as can be carried out using the techniques of application of nozzle adhesive of the type called "with omission of gaps". As such, the adhesive can be adjusted at the desired location on each outer nozzle patch, and as such, sufficient adhesive can be applied to provide a longitudinally extending strip so that it sticks to the underlying region of the cigarette (for example , to the first layer of nozzle material) as well as a longitudinally extending strip so that it sticks on itself (for example, to allow the outer layer, folded on itself, so nozzle form a seam type). Optionally, when adhesive application types "with gap omission" are used, the adhesive application may be absent at one or both ends of the adhesive strip over the region of the nozzle patch that provides the outer seam of the outer nozzle material. ; and as such, one or both longitudinal ends of the outer nozzle material may be provided with a type of tongue that can be used to catch the outer nozzle material in order to tear that nozzle material away from the rest of the cigarette. Such tabs typically have a width that is at least comparable to that of the seam line, and a length between about 2 mm and about 5 mm.

The preparation of a "double" cigarette with double nozzle can also be carried out using a single "patch" of nozzle material. In that way, a "patch" of nozzle having a prolonged length (for example, of a length at least sufficient to allow that "patch" to wrap twice the relevant region of the "double" cigarette) can be used. For example, the "patch" of nozzle material may be wrapped around the "double" cigarette to form a portion or inner nozzle layer that extends around said "double" cigarette, and the "double" cigarette may be rotate a second time so that it can be wrapped with the remaining length of the "patch" and therefore provide an outer portion or layer of nozzle. In one embodiment, adhesive can be applied to the entire inner surface of the elongated "patch." In another embodiment, adhesive can be applied to the entire inner surface of the "patch" that forms the inner nozzle layer, and "gap-omitting" techniques can be used such that in the portion of that "patch" that forms The outer nozzle layer is applied only one strip of adhesive (for example, to provide a seam).

They are also described, referring to FIG. 2, representative, alternative ways or methods to provide certain preferred types of cigarettes. A "double" filter segment 417 is provided which has filter material 205 circumscribed by the filter housing 206. Two columns 190, 428 of tobacco are aligned at each end of the "double" filter segment. A first layer of nozzle material 208 and a second outer layer of nozzle material 250 are provided as a double layer of nozzle material (for example, as a laminate). The laminated layer of the first and second layers of nozzle material 208, 250 is wrapped around the aligned components, such that the laminated layer of said two nozzle materials circumscribes the full length of segment 417 of "double" filter , and a portion of the length of each column 190, 428 of tobacco in the respective regions thereof adjacent to the filter segment. Thus, the so-called "double" 400 cigarette is provided. Optionally, said cigarette may be diluted with air (for example, using laser drilling techniques) by applying at least one surrounding ring of perforations 210, 455 to

through the second layer or outer layer of the nozzle material 250, the first inner layer or layer of nozzle material 208, and the underlying filter shell 206. Next, the "double" combined segment having two layers of nozzle material is cut in half, perpendicular to its longitudinal axis to provide two finished cigarettes 174, 409. Thus, filter cigarettes are provided that have two layers of nozzle material that are positioned, applied and aligned in a desired, predetermined manner.

Cigarette columns are typically manufactured using a cigarette making machine, such as a conventional automated cigarette column making machine. Exemplary cigarette column making machines are of the commercially available type in Molins PLC

or Hauni-Werke Korber & Co. KG. For example, cigarette column making machines of the type known as MkX (commercially available from Molins PLC) or PROTOS (commercially available from Hauni-Werke Korber & Co. KG) can be used. A description of a PROTOS cigarette making machine is provided in US Patent No. 4,474,190 to Brand, in column 5, line 48 to column 8, line 3. Types of equipment suitable for the manufacture of cigarettes are also set forth in US Patent No. 4,781,203 to La Hue; 4,844,100 from Holznagel; 5,131,416 of Gentry; 5,156,169 to Holmes et al .;

5,191,906 to Myracle, Jr. et al .; 6,647,870 to Blau et al .; 6,848,449 of Kitao et al .; and 6,904,917 of Kitao et al; and in Hartman's US Patent Application Publications No. 2003/0145866; 2004/0129281 of Hancock et al .; 2005/0039764 by Barnes et al .; and 2005/0076929 of Fitzgerald et al.

The components and operation of conventional automated cigarette making machines will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art of designing and operating cigarette making machinery. For example, in US Patents No. 3,288,147 to Molins et al .;

3,915,176 of Heitmann et al .; 4,291,713 to Frank; 4,574,816 of Rudszinat; 4,736,754 of Heitmann et al .; 4,878,506 from Pinck et al .; 5,060,665 of Heitmann; 5,012,823 from Keritsis et al. and 6,360,751 of Fagg et al .; and in US Patent Publication No. Muller's 2003/0136419 discloses descriptions of the components and operation of various types of chimneys, tobacco filling supply equipment, suction conveyor systems and attachment systems. Automated cigarette making machines of the type set forth herein provide a continuous, formed, smoking cigarette column or column, which can be subdivided into smokable columns formed of desired lengths.

Various types of components for cigarettes can be used, including types of tobacco, tobacco mixtures, dressing materials (top dressing) and salting (casing), compaction densities of the mixtures and types of paper wrapping materials for tobacco columns . See, for example, the various representative types of cigarette components, as well as the various designs, formats, configurations and characteristics of cigarettes, which are set forth in Johnson, Development of Cigarette Components to Meet Industry Needs, 52nd TSRC (September, 1998) ; US Patents 5,101,839 to Jakob et al .; 5,159,944 to Arzonico et al .; 5,220,930 to Gentry and 6,779,530 to Kraker; US Patent Publications No. 2005/0016556 of Asheratt et al. and 2005/0066986 by Nestor et al .; and US Patent Applications Serial No. 11 / 375,700, filed March 14, 2006, by Thomas et al. and 11 / 408,625, filed April 21, 2006, from Oglesby. Most preferably, the entire smokable column is composed of smokable material (e.g., cut tobacco filling) and a layer of surrounding outer wrapping material.

Components for filter elements for filter cigarettes are typically provided from filter bars that are produced using traditional types of bar-forming units, such as those available as KDF-2 and KDF-3E at Hauni-Werke Korber & Co KG Typically, the filter material, such as the filter bast, is provided using a bast processing unit. An example bast processing unit has been commercially available as E-60 supplied by Arjay Equipment Corp., Winston-Salem, NC. Other examples of bast processing units have been commercially available as AF-2, AF-3, and AF-4 at Hauni-Werke Korber & Co. KG. Additionally, in US Patent No. 4,281,671 to Byrne;

4,862,905 de Green, Jr. et al .; 5,060,664 from Siems et al .; 5,387,285 to Rivers; and 7,074,170 from Lanier, Jr. et al. Representative ways and methods for operating filter material supply units and filter making units are set forth. In US Patents 4,807,809 to Pryor et al. and 5,025,814 to Raker other types of technologies are exposed to supply filter materials to a filter bar forming unit.

The filter material may vary, and it can be any material of the type that can be used to provide a cigarette smoke filter for cigarettes. Preferably, a traditional cigarette filter material is used, such as cellulose acetate bast, cellulose acetate puckered sheet, polypropylene bast, cellulose acetate pucker sheet, puckered paper, reconstituted tobacco strands, or the like. Filiform tow such as cellulose acetate, polyolefins such as polypropylene, or the like is especially preferred. A filter material that can provide a suitable filter bar is the cellulose acetate tow having 3 deniers per filament and 40,000 deniers in total. As an alternative example, the cellulose acetate tow with 3 deniers per filament and 35,000 deniers in total can provide a suitable filter bar. As an alternative example, the cellulose acetate tow with 8 deniers per filament and 40,000 deniers in total can provide a suitable filter bar. For additional examples, see the types of filter materials set forth in US Pat.

3,424,172 to Neurath; 4,811,745 from Cohen et al .; 4,925,602 of Hill et al .; 5,225,277 to Takegawa et al. and 5,271,419

from Arzonico et al.

In the filiform tow a plasticizer such as triacetin is usually applied in traditional amounts using known techniques. For those skilled in the art of designing and manufacturing cigarette filters, other suitable materials or additives used in connection with the construction of the filter element will be readily apparent. See, for example, US Patent No. 5,387,285 to Rivers.

Filter wrap may vary. See, for example, US Patent No. 4,174,719 to Martin. Typically, the filter envelope is a porous or non-porous paper material. Suitable filter wrap materials are commercially available. Example papers for filter wraps with a porosity between approximately 1,100 CORESTA units and approximately 26,000 CORESTA units are available from Schweitzer-Maudit International as Porowrap 17-M1, 33-M1, 45-M1, 70-M9, 95-M9, 150-M4, 150-M9, 240M9S, 260-M4 and 260-M4T; and in Miquel-y-Costas as 22HP90 and 22HP150. Non-porous filter wrap materials typically have porosities less than about 40 CORESTA units, and often less than about 20 CORESTA units. Exemplary non-porous filter wrap papers are available from Olsany Facility (OP Paprina) of the Czech Republic as PW646; Wattenspapier of Austria as FY / 33060; Miquel-y-Costas of Spain as 646; and Schweitzer-Mauduit International as MR650 and 180. The wrapping paper of the filter can be coated, particularly on the surface facing the filter material, with a layer of a film forming material. Such a coating can be provided using an agent suitable for the formation of polymeric films (for example, ethyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose mixed with calcium carbonate, nitrocellulose, nitrocellulose mixed with calcium carbonate, or a coating composition called lip peeling (lip release) of the type commonly used for cigarette manufacturing). Alternatively, a plastic film (for example, a polypropylene film) can be used as the filter wrapping material. For example, non-porous polypropylene materials that are available as ZNA-20 and ZNA-25 can be used as filter wrap materials at Treofan Germany GmbH & Co. KG.

Cigarette filter bars can be used to provide multi-segment filter bars. Then, said multi-segment filter bars can be used for the production of filter cigarettes having multi-segment filter elements. An example of a two-segment filter element is a filter element that has a first cylindrical segment that incorporates activated charcoal particles dispersed within cellulose acetate tow (for example, a "dalmation" type filter segment) at one end, and a second cylindrical segment that is produced from a filter bar produced essentially with flavored, plasticized cellulose acetate bast material, at the other end. The production of multi-segment filter bars can be carried out using the types of bar-forming units that have been traditionally used to provide multi-segment cigarette filter components. Multi-segment cigarette filter bars can be manufactured using a cigarette filter bar making device available under the trade name Mulfi at Hauni-Werke Korber & Co. KG of Hamburg, Germany. In US Patents No.

4,920,990 by Lawrence et al .; 5,012,829 to Thesing et al .; 5,025,814 to Raker; 5,074,320 to Jones et al .; 5,105,838 of White et al .; 5,271,419 to Arzonico et al .; 5,360,023 to Blakley et al .; 5,396,909 of Gentry et al .; and 5,718,250 of Banerjee et al .; in US Patent Application Publications No. 2002/0166563 of Jupe et al., 2004/0261807 of Dube et al. and 2005/0066981 of Crooks et al .; in PCT Publication No. WO 03/009711 by Kim; in PCT Publication No. WO 03/047836 by Xue et al .; and in US Patent Application Serial No. 11 / 226,932, filed on September 14, 2005, of Coleman III, et al., representative types of filter designs and components, including representative types of cigarette filters, are set forth. segmented.

The length of the filter element of each cigarette may vary. Typically, the total length of a filter element is between about 20 mm and about 40 mm, and often between about 25 mm and about 35 mm. For a typical dual segment filter element, the downstream filter segment by the mouth end has a length of between about 10 mm and about 20 mm; and the upstream or end of the tobacco column filter segment often has a length between about 10 mm and about 20 mm.

Filter elements, or combined filter segment filter components, are typically provided from filter bars that are manufactured using traditional types of cigarette filter bar manufacturing techniques. For example, so-called "sixfold" filter bars, "quadruple" filter bars and "double" filter bars that have the general format and configuration conventionally used for the manufacture of filter cigarettes can be manipulated using handling devices. Cigarette bars of the conventional type or properly modified, such as nozzle application devices available such as Lab MAX, MAX, MAX S or MAX 80 at Hauni-Werke Korber & Co. KG. See, for example, the types of devices set forth in US Patents No. 3,308,600 to Erdmann et al .; 4,281,670 to Heitmann et al .; 4,280,187 to Reuland et al .; 4,850,301 from Greene, Jr. et al .; and 6,229,115 by Voz et al .; and patent application publications

No. 2005/0103355 of Holmes, 2005/1094014 of Read, Jr., and 2006/0169295 of Draghetti. The operation of such types of devices will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art of automated cigarette manufacturing. The ways and methods to apply adhesives to nozzle materials during the

Automated cigarette manufacturing will be apparent to those skilled in the art of cigarette design and manufacturing. For example, a filter cigarette can be embossed with a first layer of nozzle material in an essentially traditional manner using a Lab MAX spreading device that is available from Hauni-Werke Korber & Co. KG, and that emboquillado cigarette can be picked up and emboquilla again using that device (for example, using the device in an essentially traditional way, or in a manner modified appropriately to provide a desired pattern of adhesive application) in order to provide a filter cigarette that has two layers of nozzle material.

The first layer of nozzle material extends most preferably over the entire length of the filter element, and between about 2 mm and about 6 mm, usually between about 3 mm and about 5 mm, and often about 4 mm over the length of the adjacent region of the tobacco column. The second layer of nozzle material most preferably extends over the entire length of the filter element, and between approximately 2 mm and approximately 6 mm, usually between approximately 3 mm and approximately 5 mm, and frequently approximately 4 mm above the length of the adjacent region of the tobacco column.

The nozzle material used for any of the layers of nozzle material may vary. In certain preferred variations, the material used to construct both layers of nozzle material has the characteristics and qualities commonly associated with cigarette nozzle materials known in the art. Thus, both layers can be constructed with the types of material conventionally used as a nozzle material in cigarette manufacturing. Typical nozzle materials are papers that have relatively high opacities. Representative nozzle materials have TAPPI opacities greater than about 81 percent, usually in the range of about 84 percent to about 90 percent, and sometimes greater than about 90 percent. Typical nozzle materials are printed with inks, typically based on nitrocellulose, which can provide a wide variety of "lip detachment" aspects and properties. Representative nozzle paper materials have weights between about 25 g / m2 and about 60 g / m2, usually between about 30 g / m2 and about 40 g / m2. Representative nozzle papers are available with Tervakoski Reference Numbers 3121, 3124, TK 652, TK674, TK675, A360 and A362; and the Schweitzer-Mauduit International Reference Numbers GSR270 and GSR265M2. See also, for example , the types of nozzle materials, the methods for combining cigarette components using nozzle materials, and the techniques for wrapping several portions of cigarettes using nozzle materials, which are set forth in US Pat. Serial No. 11 / 377,630, filed March 16, 2006, by Crooks et al.

The adhesives used to secure nozzle materials with each other or with other filter cigarette components may vary. Typical exemplary formulations of adhesives that are used for the application of nozzle material to other components of cigarettes in commercial filter cigarette manufacturing operations are water based emulsions incorporating mixtures of ethylene vinyl acetate and polyvinyl acetate copolymers. Representative adhesives that are useful for applying nozzle materials to cigarette components are available under Reference No. 32-2049 and 32-2124 at National Starch & Adhesives Corp. See also, for example, Skeist, Handbook of Adhesives, 2nd Edition (1977); Schneberger, Adhesive in Manufacturing (1983); Gutcho, Adhesives Technology Developments Since 1979 (1983); Landrock, Adhesives Technology Handbook (1985); and Flick, Handbook of Adhesives Raw Materials, 2nd Edition (1989).

Pressure sensitive adhesives can be used to provide adhesion of the outer nozzle material to the remaining components of the cigarette (for example, particularly for the manufacture, handling, packaging, transport, storage and initial use of the cigarette), as well as to provide the simple detachability (for example, particularly so that the outer nozzle can be easily removed from the cigarette, when desired). That is, preferred, suitable pressure sensitive adhesives provide a satisfactory but temporary bond between the outer nozzle material and the remaining components of the cigarette, and said adhesive is such that the outer nozzle material or a portion thereof can detach, and, therefore, withdraw, from the cigarette, most preferably without leaving, to any significant or easily discernible degree, No adhesive residue on the underlying cigarette components. Additionally, most preferably, suitable preferred pressure sensitive adhesives, although they provide sufficient adhesion so that a cigarette with a double nozzle can be used as desired without adhesive failure (i.e., in order to avoid a detachment premature, undesirable, portions of the outer nozzle with respect to the cigarette), they are such that the intentional removal of the outer nozzle material does not cause any significant or perceptible structural failure on the underlying components of the cigarette. That is, more preferably, after the intentional removal of the outer nozzle material, the resulting cigarette does not exhibit any significant visual or structural deterioration as a result of the presence and removal of said outer nozzle material. If desired, the outer surface of the first underlying nozzle material may optionally be coated with a lacquer, or other suitable coating material, in order to provide a tendency for substantially all of the pressure sensitive adhesive to be removed along with the outer nozzle material. Representative pressure sensitive adhesives are commercially available from a wide variety of sources, such as 3M, Rohm & Haas Company, and Ashland Specialty Chemical Company. See also, for example, Satas, Handbook of Pressure

Sensitive Adhesive Technology (1982), and Satas, Advances in Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Technology 2 (1995).

Cigarettes may be diluted with air. The nozzle materials can be pre-punched, or they can incorporate air dilution in line using laser drilling techniques. For cigarettes that have dilution with air or ventilation, the amount or degree of dilution with air or ventilation may vary. Frequently, the amount of air dilution for a cigarette with air dilution is greater than about 10 percent, generally greater than about 20 percent, usually greater than about 30 percent, and sometimes greater that about 40 percent. Typically, the upper level of air dilution for a cigarette with air dilution is less than about 80 percent, and is usually less than about 70 percent. As used herein, the term "air dilution" is the ratio (expressed as a percentage) of the volume of air absorbed through the air dilution media with respect to the total volume and the air and smoke absorbed. through the cigarette and out through the extreme end portion of the mouthpiece of the cigarette. For certain preferred air-diluted cigarettes, cigarettes have an air dilution such that the cigarette exhibits substantially identical levels of air dilution when the second layer is present in the cigarette and when the second layer has been removed from the cigarette (for example , laser punching relevant regions of a "double" cigarette after the second layer of nozzle material has been applied to said cigarette).

Referring to FIG. 3, another embodiment of a cigarette 174 with filter is shown. A first nozzle material 208 circumscribes both the entire length of the filter element and an adjacent region of the tobacco column. The inner surface of the first nozzle material 208 is firmly secured to the outer surface of the filter housing 206 and to the outer surface of the wrapping material 190 of the tobacco column, by using a suitable adhesive. Optionally, a ventilated or air-diluted smoking article is provided with air dilution means, such as a series of perforations 210, each of which extends through the first nozzle material 208 and the envelope 206 of filter. Cigarette 174 also has a second nozzle material 250. The second nozzle material 250 provides an outer layer that overlaps and circumscribes the first nozzle material 208. The second nozzle material 250 does not extend as upstream along the cigarette as the first nozzle material 208 does, and as such, a portion of the length of the first nozzle material is not covered or wrapped by the second material 250 nozzle The inner surface, or a certain portion thereof, of the second nozzle material 250 may be firmly secured to the outer surface of the inner nozzle material 208 or first nozzle material. As such, the second nozzle material 250 can also be superimposed on the entire length of the filter element and the adjacent region of the tobacco column. Optionally, a ventilated or air-diluted smoking article is provided with air dilution means, such as a series of perforations 210, each of which extends through the outer nozzle material 250, the material 208 of inner nozzle, and filter wrap 206.

Referring to FIG. 4, another embodiment of a cigarette 174 with filter is shown. A first nozzle material 208 circumscribes both the entire length of the filter element and an adjacent region of the tobacco column. The inner surface of the first nozzle material 208 is firmly secured to the outer surface of the filter housing 206 and to the outer surface of the wrapping material 190 of the tobacco column, using a suitable adhesive. Optionally, a ventilated or air-diluted smoking article is provided with air dilution means, such as a series of perforations 210, each of which extends through the first nozzle material 208 and the envelope 206 of filter. Cigarette 174 also has a second nozzle material 250. The second nozzle material 250 provides an outer layer that overlaps and circumscribes the first nozzle material 208. The second nozzle material 250 extends more upstream along the cigarette than the first nozzle material 208, and as such, a portion of the length of the wrapping material 190 of the tobacco column that is not covered or wrapped by the First nozzle material is circumscribed by the second nozzle material 250. The inner surface, or some portion thereof, of the second nozzle material 250 may be firmly secured to the outer surface of the inner nozzle material 208 or first nozzle material, and optionally but not preferably, to the wrapping material 190 in that region upstream of it that is not circumscribed by the first nozzle material. Thus, the second nozzle material 250 can also be superimposed on the entire length of the filter element and the adjacent region of the tobacco column. Optionally, a ventilated or air-diluted smoking article is provided with air dilution means, such as a series of perforations 210, each of which extends through the outer nozzle material 250, the material 208 of inner nozzle, and filter wrap 206.

Referring to FIG. 5, yet another embodiment of a cigarette 174 with filter is shown. A first nozzle material 208 circumscribes both the full length of the filter element 200 and an adjacent region of the tobacco column 186. The inner surface of the first nozzle material 208 is firmly secured to the outer surface of the filter housing 206 and to the outer surface of the wrapping material 190 of the tobacco column, using a suitable adhesive. Optionally, a ventilated or air-diluted smoking article is provided with air dilution means, such as a series of perforations 210, each of which extends through the first nozzle material 208 and the sheath 206 Filter Cigarette 174 also has a second nozzle material 250. The second nozzle material 250 provides an outer layer that overlaps and circumscribes the first nozzle material 208. Optionally, a ventilated smoking item or

with air dilution it is provided with air dilution means, such as a series of perforations 210, each of which extends through the outer nozzle material 250, the inner nozzle material 208, and the envelope 206 of filter. The second nozzle material 250 has a line or ring of a plurality of perforations 545 that extends around the cigarette essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of said cigarette. Thus, the second nozzle material 250 can be subdivided with respect to the perforation line to provide two outer nozzle material sections, an outer section or segment 550 located at the end of the cigarette's final mouth, and the other outer section 555 located upstream with respect to said end segment of the mouth.

In one embodiment, the outer end section or segment 550 of the mouthpiece of the second nozzle material 250 is secured to the corresponding underlying region of the first nozzle material 208. Preferably, the upstream segment is constituted with the general shape of a ring or tube (for example, by applying enough adhesive to the seam line thereof, although not enough adhesive to prevent the longitudinal movement of said ring or tube). Thus, when the region having perforations 545 is broken, the segment 555 upstream of the second nozzle material can be movable along the tobacco column 186. Thus, the upstream segment 555 can act as a sleeve, ring, sliding band, or the like. Such a sliding band can be used to provide flavor to a desired region of the tobacco column (for example, the inner face of the band may have a film that incorporates a plurality of microcapsules comprising a micro-encapsulated flavoring agent, or a flavoring agent that is otherwise trapped by a film or encapsulation agent, and the friction resulting from the movement of the band along the smokable column can result in the release of the flavoring agent contained and the application of that flavoring agent to the wrapping material of the tobacco column), can act as a movable band not fuel to extinguish the cigarette during use (for example, a band composed of a material that is not highly permeable to air, a heat sink material, or a material treated so that it is essentially non-combustible that can be positioned on a desired region of the tobacco column), or it can act as a visual check to observe the progress while smoking (for example, the band can be positioned on a desired location of the tobacco column before starting the smoking experience), or it can serve any other suitable purpose. In this way, the movable or sliding portion of the outer nozzle material can be moved or slid by the smoker before, during, or after smoking the cigarette as desired. In some embodiments, the movable portion of the outer nozzle material can be adapted to improve the sensory characteristics of the cigarette butt after smoking the cigarette by providing, for example, a pleasant fragrance or otherwise masking any smell associated with the cigarette butt. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer nozzle material includes micro-encapsulated flavoring agents that can be selectively broken by the user after smoking to improve the smell associated with the butt. In another exemplary embodiment, the movable portion can be used to extinguish or extinguish the cigarette by moving the entire

or a portion of the outer nozzle material on the lit end of the cigarette, optionally with additional pressure applied by the user on the outer surface of the movable portion of the nozzle material once it is positioned on the burning portion of the tobacco column.

In one embodiment, the outer section or segment 555 upstream of the second nozzle material 250 is secured to the corresponding underlying region of the first nozzle material 208. Preferably, the downstream segment is constituted with the general shape of a ring or tube (for example, by applying enough adhesive to the seam line thereof, but not enough adhesive to prevent the longitudinal movement of said ring or tube). Thus, when the region having perforations 545 is broken, the end segment 550 of the mouthpiece of the second nozzle material can be movable along the filter element. Thus, the end segment 550 of the mouthpiece can act as a type of extension to extend the end region of the mouthpiece of the cigarette. For example, said segment can slide out of the filter end of the cigarette and thus create a type of cigarette holder to lengthen the column.

Referring to FIG. 6, the extreme mouth region of a filter cigarette 174 is shown, such as a filter cigarette of the type described previously in reference to FIGS. 1 and 3 to 5. The filter material 205 is circumscribed by the filter envelope 206, which has an overlap or seam region 600 where a portion of the filter envelope overlaps itself. The overlap zone for the filter envelope has a width typically between about 2 mm and about 4 mm. Superimposed on the filter envelope 206 is a layer of the first nozzle material 208, which has an overlapping or seam region 606 where a portion of said nozzle material overlaps itself. The overlap zone for the first nozzle material typically has a width of less than about 4 mm, usually less than about 3 mm, and is often between about 1.5 mm and about 2.5 mm. Superimposed on the first nozzle material 208 is a layer of second nozzle material 250, which has an overlapping or sewing region 616 where a portion of that nozzle material overlaps itself. The overlap zone for the second nozzle material has a width typically less than about 4 mm, usually less than about 3 mm, and is often between about 1.5 mm and about 2.5 mm. Additionally, beyond the seam region 616 of the second nozzle material 250, said nozzle material has an optional extended region 620, which preferably does not reattach on itself, but instead is placed on its surface Exterior

underlying and is free enough to act as a tongue that can be caught by the user's fingers. The prolonged region that preferably extends along a portion of the length of the cigarette, and during the entire length of the second nozzle material, has a width that can vary. For example, normally the prolonged region may have a width of between about 1 mm and about 5 mm, and usually between about 2 mm and about 4 mm. If desired, printed indications on the outer surface of the second nozzle material can provide an indication of the location of the prolonged region.

Referring to FIG. 7, the mouth end region of a filter cigarette 174 is shown, such as a filter cigarette of the type described previously in reference to FIGS. 1 and 3 to 5. The filter material 205 is circumscribed by the filter envelope 206, which has an overlap or seam region 600 where a portion of the filter envelope overlaps itself. Superimposed on the filter housing 206 is a double layer, and most preferably, a laminated layer, of the first and second nozzle materials 208, 250. The double layer of nozzle materials has a 630 region of overlap or seam where a portion of the lower face

or interior of the first nozzle material 208 is superimposed on a portion of its upper or outer face. That overlap zone for the first nozzle material typically has a width less than about 4 mm, usually less than about 3 mm, and is often between about 1.5 mm and about 2.5 mm. The double layer of nozzle materials may have an optional, but not preferable, overlapping or sewing region 635, where a portion of the lower or inner face of the second nozzle material 250 overlaps a portion of its upper or outer face, and wherein the region of overlap or seam includes an optional adhesive to secure the second nozzle material itself. Said overlap zone, optional, for the second nozzle material, when present, typically has a width less than about 4 mm, usually less than about 3 mm, and is often between about 1.5 mm and about 2.5 mm . Additionally, beyond the seam region 635, the second nozzle material 250 or outer nozzle material has a prolonged region 680, which preferably does not have adhesive applied to its inner face, but instead is placed on its surface underlying exterior and is free enough to act as a tongue that can be caught by the user's fingers. The prolonged region, which preferably extends along a portion of the length of the cigarette, and during the entire length of the second nozzle material, has a width that can vary. For example, the prolonged region can usually be between about 1 mm and about 5 mm wide, and usually between about 2 mm and about 4 mm. If desired, printed indications on the outer surface of the second nozzle material can provide an indication of the location of the prolonged region.

Referring to FIG. 8, a side view of a representative laminated nozzle material having layers provided by a first nozzle material 208 and a second nozzle material 250 is shown. The configuration of said nozzle materials 208, 250 is such that the laminated layer of nozzle material can be used to provide a filter cigarette of the type described previously in reference to FIG. 7. The layers of nozzle material 208, 250 are offset relative to each other, such that a portion of the second layer 250 does not overlap on the first layer 208 on one side, and a portion of the first layer 208 does not superimpose on the second layer 250 on the opposite side. Thus, the laminate can be folded on itself to provide a generally circular arrangement with the first layer of nozzle material forming the inner region and the second layer of nozzle material forming the outer nozzle region. For the embodiment shown, the inner right face 684 of the inner nozzle material 208 can be overlapped on and can be adhered to the outer left face 686 of the left side of the inner nozzle material in that region on which the material 250 does not overlap External nozzle Thus, the right side 680 of the outer nozzle material 250 can act as the so-called prolonged region or tongue that can be used to pull the detachable nozzle material by detaching it from the rest of the filter cigarette into which it is incorporated.

Referring to FIG. 9, a side view of another embodiment of a laminated nozzle material having layers provided by a first nozzle material 208 and a second nozzle material 250 is shown. The configuration of said nozzle materials 208, 250 is such that the laminated layer of nozzle material can be used to provide a generally filtered cigarette of the type described previously in reference to FIG. 7. The layers of nozzle material 208, 250 are offset relative to each other, such that a portion of the second layer 250 does not overlap the first layer 208 on one side 686. For the embodiment shown, the inner right face 684 of the inner nozzle material 208 can be overlapped and can be adhered to the outer left face 686 of the left side of the inner nozzle material in that region on which the outer nozzle material 250 does not overlap. Thus, the laminate can be folded over itself to provide a generally circular arrangement with the inner nozzle material forming the inner region and the outer nozzle material forming the outer nozzle region.

Referring to FIG. 10, an end region of the mouth of a filter cigarette 174 is shown, such as a filter cigarette of the type described previously in reference to FIGS. 1 and 3 to 5. The filter material 205 is circumscribed by a filter envelope 206, which has an overlap or seam region 600 where a portion of the filter envelope overlaps itself. Superimposed on the filter envelope 206 is a

Double layer of the first and second nozzle materials 208, 250 provided by surrounding the cigarette twice with a single piece of nozzle material 890. The first layer of nozzle material 208 preferably adheres to the underlying filter housing 206, and also has an overlap or seam region 630 where a portion of the lower or inner face of said inner nozzle material 208 overlaps a portion of your upper or outer face. A perforation line 900, which extends along the longitudinal dimension of the filter element, extends across said nozzle material, and thus defines a type of demarcation between the nozzle materials 208, 250, interior and exterior. The nozzle material extends around the cigarette to provide the second layer of nozzle material 250. The second layer of nozzle material 250 preferably has an overlap or seam region 920 where a portion of the lower or inner face of said outer nozzle material 250 overlaps a portion of its upper or outer face and can be adhered to the same. Said overlap zone 920 for the second nozzle material 250 has a width typically less than about 4 mm, usually less than about 3 mm, and is often between about 1.5 mm and about 2.5 mm. Additionally, beyond the seam region 920, the second nozzle material 250 or outer nozzle material has a prolonged region 680, which preferably does not have adhesive applied to its inner face, but instead is placed on its surface underlying exterior and is free enough to act as a tongue that can be caught by the user's fingers. The prolonged region, which preferably extends for a portion of the length of the cigarette, and during the full length of the second nozzle material, has a width that can vary. For example, the prolonged region can usually be between about 1 mm and about 5 mm wide, and usually between about 2 mm and about 4 mm.

Referring to FIG. 11, an individual piece of "patch" of nozzle material 890 is shown that can be used to form the double wrapped nozzle material shown in FIG. 10. The representative individual piece has a length that is at least approximately twice that of a conventional piece or "patch" of nozzle material. Thus, the piece 890 of nozzle material can form an inner layer 208 and an outer layer 250 when said nozzle material is wrapped twice around the relevant regions of the cigarette components. The inner face of the inner region 208 may have adhesive 950 applied therein, in order to adhere said portion of the nozzle material 890 to relevant regions of cigarette components. The perforation line 900 allows the nozzle material 890 to be separated into two pieces. In the 920 overlap region

or seams an adhesive line can be placed (for example, which can be applied by means of "gap-freeing" techniques) that provides for fixing, securing, connecting the outer layer of nozzle material 250 in position. The optional tongue region 680 extends beyond the adhesive line of the overlap region 920.

For various embodiments of the present invention, depending on the selection of the nozzle materials, the first nozzle material (i.e. inner) and the second nozzle material (i.e. outer) may be different from each other (e.g. , in terms of visual appearance, composition, physical properties or characteristics such as weight, level of sizing, inherent porosity, opacity, sensory characteristics and / or general dimensions). Alternatively, said inner and outer nozzle materials may be substantially identical to each other.

In one embodiment, the first nozzle material may be of a color or of a type of appearance (eg, white in appearance), and the second nozzle material, which may preferably be detachable from the cigarette, may be of another color or of another type of aspect (for example, it can be printed so that it has a brown cork-like appearance or it can be printed with other indications). Other aesthetic differences can be provided using a type of nozzle material that has a smooth, high opacity, bright, or highly glossy appearance, and a type of nozzle material that has a rough, low opacity, matte or satin appearance. Other visual effects can be provided using different graphics on each of the two nozzle materials. Thus, a way or method is provided by which the smoker, by removing the second nozzle material with respect to the cigarette during use, can select the desired general appearance or of a cigarette.

In one embodiment, the first nozzle material may be selected such that it possesses a tactile type character, and the second nozzle material, which may preferably be detachable from the cigarette, may possess a different tactile type character. For example, the inner nozzle material may have an outer surface that can be characterized as being wavy, rough, veined, with creases or wrinkles, with an accordion or bellows type configuration, or the like; The outer nozzle material may have an outer surface that can be characterized as being smooth, smooth, or the like. In this regard, suitable coating agents (for example, a lacquer) that provide a smooth, smooth feel to the outer surface of the outer nozzle material can be used. Alternatively, the inner nozzle material can have a high level of perforations (for example, from the underside outwards), it can have reliefs, it can be subjected to a filigree processing, it can be printed with coatings (for example, formulations of starch-based ink or materials that provide high or textured surface properties), or can be treated with particulate material within an adhesive film). For example, sugar crystals, salt crystals, breakable microcapsules containing flavorings, cellulosic fibers, calcium carbonate particles, or the like can be secured on the outer face of the inner nozzle material, using an overcoat or overcoat. with built-in pattern, of a suitable adhesive.

Nozzle materials that can all provide an end region of the mouthpiece that may have a different sensation when placed on the smoker's lips can also be achieved through the use of two types of rolled nozzle materials. For example, the inner face of the outer nozzle material can be coated with a suitable release coating; and the outer face of the inner nozzle material can be treated so that it has regions that provide the desired adhesion to the release coating as well as regions that provide the desired surface texture. In this way, a way or method is provided by which the smoker, by removing the second nozzle material from the cigarette during use, can select the tactile sensation provided by the outer end region of said cigarette mouth.

In one embodiment, the first nozzle material may be selected so as to possess other determined physical properties, and the second nozzle, which may preferably be detachable from the cigarette, may possess different physical properties. For example, the nozzle materials may differ in terms of grammage, thickness, tensile strength, wet strength, moisture, porosity, air permeability, flexibility, general or global hardness, general or global softness, or the like.

In one embodiment, the first nozzle material can be selected so that it has the ability to secure the filter element to the tobacco column. This can be provided by selecting a material that has surface properties, a sealability, an ability to accept desired adhesives, and the like. The second nozzle material can be selected so as to provide desirable visual, tactile and sensory properties. Thus, cigarettes that have both highly desirable sensory quality and good physical integrity can be provided.

In one embodiment, the first nozzle material can be selected so that it has a type of aroma or taste sensation, and the second nozzle material, which can be detachable from the cigarette, can be selected so as to present another type of sensation. of aroma or flavor. In one aspect, the amount of aromatic or flavoring agent carried by one of the nozzle materials may differ with respect to the amount carried by the other. Thus, for example, an outer nozzle material that bears a relatively low level of aromatic or flavoring agent can provide a kind of sensation; at the same time an inner nozzle material that bears a relatively high level of aromatic or flavoring agent can provide an impact in terms of the delivery of said aromatic or flavoring agent to the smoker's lips and mouth, when the nozzle material Outside remove from cigarette. In certain embodiments, the outer nozzle material may be adapted to prevent flavorings incorporated between the nozzle materials or within the inner nozzle material from escaping before the use of the cigarette, or it may be adapted to mask the flavor before the use of the cigarette. . At the time of use, the smoker can remove the outer wrapping material to expose the flavor.

In Gutcho, Microcapsules and Microencapsulation Techniques (1976) and Gutcho, Microcapsules and Other Capsules Advances Since 1975 (1979) exemplifying forms and methods for providing encapsulated materials, such as microencapsulated flavoring agents, are set forth. Exemplary types of microcapsules may have diameters less than 100 microns, and may normally have outer shells that are based on gelatin, based on cyclodextrin, or the like. Microcapsules have been commercially available, and exemplary types of microcapsule technologies are of the type set forth in Kondo, Microcapsule Processing and Technology (1979); Iwamoto et al., AAPS Pharm. Sci. Tech. 2002 3 (3): article 25; and US patents no.

3,550,598 of McGlumphy and 6,117,455 of Takada et al.

In one embodiment, releasable flavoring or aromatic agents, such as those provided by encapsulated flavoring materials, can be incorporated into one of the first and second nozzle materials or both materials. For example, microcapsules can be positioned in the region between the layers of the nozzle materials; and said flavors can be released by application of pressure or detachment of the outer nozzle material with respect to the inner nozzle material.

Exemplary flavoring agents suitable for use in the invention can be natural or synthetic, and the character of these flavors can be described, among others, as fresh, sweet, herbs, confectionery, floral, fruity or spice. Specific types of flavors include, but are not limited to, vanilla, coffee, chocolate, cream, mint, peppermint, menthol, peppermint, gaulteria, lavender, cardamom, nutmeg, cinnamon, clove, husk, sandalwood, honey, jasmine, ginger , anise, sage, licorice, lemon, orange, apple, peach, lime, cherry, and strawberry. See also, Leffingwill et al., Tobacco Flavoring for Smoking Products, RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company (1972). Flavors may also include components that are considered wetting, cooling or softening agents, such as eucalyptus. These flavors can be provided net (ie, individually) or in a compound (for example, peppermint and menthol, or orange and cinnamon). Composite flavors can be combined in a single capsule in the form of a mixture, or as components of multiple capsules.

In one embodiment, the nozzle materials may include printed indications for marketing or other purposes. For example, marks or indications on one or both of the nozzle materials can help identify properly manufactured cigarettes so that assistance is provided in the identification or recognition of fake cigarettes. As an alternative example, the marks on the inner and outer face of a separable outer nozzle material can be used to identify the product, can act as a voucher or ticket, can act as a game token, or the like.

In one embodiment, the nozzle materials can be used to improve the degradability of parts of cigarettes consumed, such as cigarette ends. For example, after the cigarette has been smoked, external nozzle materials may be removed, which may be desirable to provide certain sensory characteristics. That part of the outer nozzle material separated from the butt can be removed independently from the rest of the butt. Thus, the absence of said nozzle material within the butt can provide an improved degradability of the remaining components of the butt.

In certain embodiments, the outer nozzle material may be constructed with a paper having characteristics and qualities, such as combustibility, commonly associated with the cigarette paper used as the wrapping material 190 of the smokable column. In said embodiments, the outer nozzle material is designed so that it is separated from the inner nozzle material through the use of, for example, a pressure sensitive adhesive or an adhesive application with omission of gaps between the nozzle material. Inner and outer, providing sufficient adhesive strength to keep the outer nozzle material in position before use by the smoker, but that can be separated from the inner nozzle material when desired. In this way, the outer nozzle material can be removed to expose the inner nozzle material before smoking the cigarette. Alternatively, in certain embodiments, the user can slide the outer nozzle material along the smoking column part of the cigarette such that a part of the smoking column has a double layer of wrapping material. The presence of the double envelope on a part of the smokable column can reduce the visible side smoke or modify the sensory characteristics (for example, the taste or aroma characteristics of the smoke) or the chemistry of the smoke generated by the cigarette. For example, the outer nozzle material may include any of the flavoring or flavoring agents described herein, including, for example, the precursors of flavors and aromas described in US Pat. No. 4,941,486 to Dube et al. In this way, the smoker can selectively modify the sensory characteristics of the smoke as desired, or can simply remove the outer nozzle material

Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will occur to those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains and enjoy the benefit of the teachings presented in the above description; and for those skilled in the art it will be apparent that variations and modifications of the present invention can be made without deviating from the scope thereof. Therefore, it should be understood that the invention will not be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that within the scope of the appended claims it is intended to include modifications and other embodiments. Although specific terms are used herein, they are used only in a generic and descriptive sense, and not for limiting purposes.